Police heavy-handed, say arrested protesters

AN Oldham man who was arrested during the weekend’s English Defence League protest in Manchester has accused police of being heavy-handed.

William Crangle (30) claimed in court that he and his friend, Kevin Greaves, were the victims of abuse.

“The police picked on us because of the way we looked. They were heavy-handed,” he said.

But Crangle, of North Croft, and Greaves (30), of Springwood Hall Road, both Oldham, admitted using threatening words and behaviour.

Crangle was fined £160 and Greaves £85. Each was ordered to pay £85 costs.

Mr Gareth Brandon, prosecuting, said Crangle swore at officers after being asked to remove a bandana that was partly covering his face.

Greaves reacted in a similar manner when told he was going to be searched. Both men were arrested after they refused to behave.

In court, Greaves apologised for his behaviour and was ordered to pay a further £300 for a second breach of an order binding him to keep the peace.